Mitochondrial bioenergetics deficiency in cisd-1 mutants is linked to AMPK-mediated lipid metabolism
Kuei-Ching Hsiung1, Hsiang-Yu Tang2, Mei-Ling Cheng3
1Department and Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
Background:
CISD-1 is a mitochondrial iron-sulfate [2Fe-2S] protein known to be associated with various human diseases, including cancer and diabetes. Previously, we demonstrated that CISD-1 deficiency in worms lowers glucose and ATP levels. In this study, we further explored how worms compensate for lower ATP levels by analyzing changes in cytoplasmic and mitochondrial iron content, AMPK activities, and total lipid profiles.
Materials And Methods:
Expression levels of CISD-1 and CISD-1GFP fusion proteins in wild-type worms (N2), cisd-1-deletion mutants (tm4993 and syb923) and GFP insertion transgenic worms (PHX953 and SJL40) were examined by Western blot. Fluorescence microscopy analyzed CISD-1GFP pattern in PHX953 embryos and adults, and lipid droplet sizes in N2, cisd-1, aak-2 and aak-2;cisd-1 worms. Total and mitochondrial iron content, electron transport complex profiles, and AMPK activity were investigated in tm4993 and syb923 mutants. mRNA levels of mitochondrial β-oxidation genes, acs-2, cpt-5, and ech-1, were quantified by RT-qPCR in various genetic worm strains. Lipidomic analyses were performed in N2 and cisd-1(tm4993) worms.
Results:
Defects in cisd-1 lead to an imbalance in iron transport and cause proton leak, resulting in lower ATP production by interrupting the mitochondrial electron transport chain. We identified a signaling pathway that links ATP deficiency-induced AMPK (AMP activated protein kinase) activation to the expression of genes that facilitate lipolysis via β-oxidation.
Conclusion:
Our data provide a functional coordination between CISD-1 and AMPK constitutes a mitochondrial bioenergetics quality control mechanism that provides compensatory energy resources.
Insights
Mitochondrial protein CISD-1 deficiency lowers ATP levels. Worms activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to boost energy production through lipid breakdown, maintaining cellular function.
Area of Science:
- Mitochondrial Bioenergetics
- Cellular Metabolism
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- CISD-1, a mitochondrial iron-sulfur protein, is implicated in diseases like cancer and diabetes.
- Previous studies showed CISD-1 deficiency in worms reduces glucose and ATP levels.
- This study investigates compensatory mechanisms in worms experiencing lower ATP levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how worms compensate for reduced ATP levels caused by CISD-1 deficiency.
- To analyze changes in iron content, AMPK activity, and lipid profiles.
- To elucidate the signaling pathway linking ATP deficiency to energy compensation.
Main Methods:
- Western blot and fluorescence microscopy to assess CISD-1 expression and protein localization.
- Analysis of total and mitochondrial iron content, electron transport chain complexes, and AMPK activity.
- RT-qPCR for mitochondrial beta-oxidation gene expression and lipidomic analysis.
Main Results:
- CISD-1 defects disrupt iron transport, causing proton leak and reduced ATP production via the electron transport chain.
- ATP deficiency activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK).
- Activated AMPK upregulates genes for lipolysis through beta-oxidation, facilitating compensatory energy production.
Conclusions:
- A functional link exists between CISD-1 and AMPK in regulating mitochondrial energy homeostasis.
- This coordination acts as a quality control mechanism for mitochondrial bioenergetics.
- The pathway provides compensatory energy resources to mitigate ATP deficiency.
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